Nerves, what nerves?

Newcastle talisman Andrew Johns certainly isn't feeling any ahead of his return to rugby league in a trial match against Cronulla at Gosford Stadium on Saturday night.

"(I had) a little (nerves) the start of the week but I'm quite relaxed actually," said Johns, whose 2004 season ended in round three when he suffered a serious knee injury.

"It's been 11 months since the injury. I know I'm fine. I'm not too nervous at all.

"I'm just looking forward to getting out there and making a few tackles."

Just how many tackles Johns makes will hinge on how long he plays.

The plan was for the former NSW and Australian halfback to spend only 20 minutes on the field, just enough time to dust off the cobwebs and test the knee.

That could be thrown out the window, however, if Johns is feeling comfortable and enjoying himself.

"We planned on about 20 minutes but I reckon once I get out there I'll stay there a while," Johns said.

"Maybe 30 or 40 minutes.

Brought to you by AAP © 2024 AAP